A new Ohio law that took effect Tuesday is stiffening penalties for people who abuse their pets.
The new law, also known as "Goddard's Law" makes it a fifth degree felony to knowingly cause serious physical harm to a companion animal. People punished under the law could face between six months and one year in prison and fines of up to $2,500. The law also imposes mandatory time in prison and fines for assaulting a police dog or horse that dies as a result of its injuries.
Shellhammer said animal abuse is an on-going problem everywhere in the United States and the warden can take action if they come across animal cruelty.
